Lissieu: History and landscapes on the edge of Beaujolais

Lissieu lies on the edge of Beaujolais, on the outermost slopes of the Monts d’Or. Rolling hills, forests and meadows shape the landscape, and several streams run through the gently undulating hills. Wetlands also contribute to the natural environment and support distinctive wildlife and plant life. When deciding where to go, Lissieu offers two particular perspectives: the landscape and its natural features, and a local history reflected in buildings and former uses of the land.

History in buildings and agriculture

Lissieu was once a wine-growing area. After the phylloxera crisis, vineyards gave way to productive orchards, particularly for pear production. This change gives local history an agricultural aspect that is distinct from its historic buildings: the development of the area includes both its former wine industry and the later cultivation of fruit.

Les Tours de Lissieu are the remains of a 12th-century castle and have been listed in the register of historic monuments since 1936. They are open to visitors who would like to learn more about local history. During the European Heritage Days, the Tours can be visited by prior arrangement with the municipal administration. The Chapelle de Bois Dieu was built around 1695. The castle remains and the chapel thus offer two different landmarks in Lissieu’s architectural history, from the Middle Ages to the late 17th century.

Another former use is explained by the Glacière de Bois Dieu: in the past, ice taken from the pond below was stored there during winter. The Étang de Bois Dieu was created in the 1850s, fed by a spring that had been tapped, and fitted with a landing stage. Thus, alongside the buildings, the former use and design of water are also local themes.

Landscape and walking

If you would like to include a longer hike in your stay, you can plan to walk the Sentier Géologie et Paysage. The circular route is 10.6 kilometres long, has a moderate difficulty level and an elevation gain of 181 metres. The route is stated to take more than two hours; the starting point is in Lissieu Bourg. Its length, elevation gain and estimated time help you fit the hike into your day and distinguish it from a visit focused mainly on historic sites.

The Sentier Géologie et Paysage can be reached by bus 61 via the Lissieu Centre Mairie stop. Check the current timetable before travelling, as transport information can change. Plan your journey on bus 61 via the Lissieu Centre Mairie stop.

The regional setting

Lissieu has been a member of the Syndicat Mixte des Monts d’Or since 2010. This regional area includes more than 2,500 hectares of natural and agricultural land, as well as walking trails and viewpoints. This information adds another perspective to the local themes: alongside Lissieu’s specific buildings, bodies of water and paths, it is part of a larger landscape area.

To decide whether Lissieu is right for your stay, you can weigh up its different highlights: Les Tours, the chapel and the Glacière offer points of interest for local history; the circular route provides a clearly described hiking option; and hills, streams, forests, meadows and wetlands shape its connection with nature.

Discover more destinations: Jullié, Saint-Lager, Lancié, Liergues, Saint-Priest, Villefranche Sur Saône, Taponas, Soucieu-en-Jarrest

For the main travel overview: Rhône.